Theory And Practice in the Plays Of Henry James

IF THE PLAYS OF HENRY JAMES HAVE BEEN IGNORED, it is largely because his critics consider James's theatrical ventures unworthy in themselves and justifiable only as lessons in dramatic technique advantageously applied to his later novels. Leon Edel, in particular, makes much of James's inability to collaborate with ,actors, producers and stage managers; and he says that unlike the successful playwright Wilde, James "could not be indifferent to his public." Though he referred to Wilde as the "unspeakable one," James envied Wilde's success and debased his own art to appeal to the latter's audiences.